3-10 Attachment - Experience and Capacity Response.pdf

Request for Proposal

Solicitation No. BPM006719

Statewide Emergency Response Services and Solutions

Arizona Department of Administration

State Procurement Office

Solicitation Attachment – Experience and Capacity Response | Revision No. 1 | Revised 11-22

Attachment 10 – Experience and Capacity Response

THE STATE MAY DETERMINE YOUR PROPOSAL NON-RESPONSIVE IF YOU DO NOT FULLY RESPOND.

The Offeror shall provide a narrative response to each section that demonstrates their understanding of the Scope of Work requirements and describes the company’s overall experience and capacity in providing the Services stated in this Solicitation. If there is a section that is not applicable to the Services required by the Scope of Work, you may mark it “N/A”.

Offeror shall provide a response either after each section or in a separate document entitled: “Attachment - Experience and Capacity Response.” If a separate document is used, please clearly designate each section and double-check to ensure that each question has been answered. If any information provided is considered CONFIDENTIAL by Offeror, the information must be specifically included in the Confidential Information Designation Attachment and related documentation to be assessed for confidential treatment under A.A.C. R2-7- 103.

1.0 Company Profile. The Offeror must include a narrative description of its organization. The narrative must include the following:

1.1 Brief overview of business operations, with an emphasis on experience in regards to the Scope of Work;

1.2 Location in which the Offeror is incorporated;

1.3 Address of “Main Office” (e.g. Corporate Headquarters and any satellite offices responsible for performance of proposed tasks;

1.4 Offeror's organizational chart relevant to the Contract, specifically identifying the key point of contact for all questions related to the submitted Offer;

1.5 Full disclosure of any potential conflict of interest between the Offeror and any State employee who functions or has responsibilities in the review or approval of the undertaking or carrying out of the Contract;

1.6 A Statement of whether, in the last five (5) years, the Offeror has filed (or had filed against it) any bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding, whether voluntary or involuntary, or undergone the appointment of a receiver, trustee, or assignee for the benefit of creditors, and if so, an explanation providing relevant details and current status;

1.7 A Statement of whether there are any pending Securities Exchange Commission investigations involving the Offeror, and if such are pending or in progress, an explanation providing relevant details and an attached opinion of counsel as to whether the pending investigation(s) may impair the Offeror’s performance in a Contract under this Solicitation;

1.8 A Statement documenting all open or pending litigation initiated by Offeror or where Offeror is a defendant or party in any litigation that may have a material impact on Offeror’s ability to deliver the contracted Services;

1.9 A Statement documenting all open or pending litigation initiated by Offeror or where Offeror is a defendant or party in any litigation with a public sector client;

1.10 Full disclosure of any public sector contracts terminated for cause or convenience in the past five (5) years;

1.11 Full disclosure of any criminal or civil offense;

1.12 Offeror shall provide evidence of any Arizona required business license to provide these Services; AND

1.13 Offeror shall provide copies of any professional or industry certifications that represent the Services detailed in this Solicitation.

Offeror Response:

1.1. 1596 Strategic Response Solutions, LLC (1596) is a Small Business Administration (SBA)-approved Mentor-Protégé

Joint Venture (JV) formed between Cotton Commercial USA, Inc. (Cotton), the Mentor / JV member, and Vision Quest Solutions, Inc. (VQS), the Protégé / JV managing venturer.

This is an unpopulated JV, meaning it does not directly employ personnel to perform contract work. Instead, all work is performed by the employees of the JV member companies—Cotton and VQS—under the terms of the JV

Arizona Department of agreement. This structure allows 1596 to leverage the combined strengths of both firms while maintaining small business eligibility for set-aside contracts.

The organizational chart below identifies the JV members and their respective roles in supporting contract execution.

1596 maintains 8(a), Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), Indian Small Business Economic Enterprise (ISBEE), and Small Business Concern. Our Mentor and Protégé bring the following capabilities to the Arizona Statewide contract:

• Cotton Commercial USA, JV Mentor / Member: Cotton is a leading provider of comprehensive solutions in logistics, temporary facilities, workforce accommodations, and emergency response services. With over 25 years of experience, Cotton specializes in crafting customized resource plans to meet the unique needs of projects across industries, including environmental, energy, oil & gas, medical, education, government, and more.

Cotton's core competencies include turnkey base camps, temporary structures, and premium workforce housing solutions, enabling large-scale operations in any environment. Their advanced resource management services encompass water and wastewater systems, environmental support, and high-end portable sanitation facilities.

Cotton also excels in project management, temporary labor, and staffing, along with emergency food services tailored for disaster relief and humanitarian operations.

With strategic locations across the U.S., Mexico, and the Caribbean, Cotton is equipped to deploy rapidly and respond to complex challenges worldwide. The company’s successful track record includes high-profile projects for FEMA, the Department of Health and Human Services, and U.S. military installations, providing critical infrastructure, catering, and facility management services during emergency response operations

• Vision Quest Solutions, JV Protégé / Managing Venturer: Founded in 2015, Vision Quest Solutions (VQS) is a family-owned, Native American and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) with 8(a) certification and designation as an Indian Small Business Economic Enterprise (ISBEE). VQS specializes in delivering comprehensive protective services, mission-essential solutions, and customized support to both public and private sector clients worldwide. VQS’s Top Secret Facility Clearance Level is pending adjudication and is

Arizona Department of scheduled for audit under the Joint Commission Accreditation, further demonstrating its commitment to security and operational excellence.

With deep expertise and agility, VQS supports national security contracts, critical infrastructure projects, and high-value energy initiatives. The company’s diverse service offerings include security services, fire and medical support, and turnkey solutions for complex, austere environments. VQS is also a trusted commercial product reseller, offering more than 1,000 security-related products for lease or purchase.

VQS’s core competencies extend to unarmed and armed security, executive protection, intelligence support, and classified conference room security. In the fire and medical services sector, VQS provides global medical staffing, ambulatory services, disaster response, and base camp support. The company’s turnkey services include project management, construction support, and full life-cycle life and safety support for demanding operational environments.

Known for its reliability and scalability, VQS is committed to delivering tailored solutions and exceptional service.

Every project is treated as a priority, resulting in long-standing client relationships. Whether managing security for high-threat environments or providing emergency medical staffing, VQS excels at crafting integrated solutions that meet the unique needs of each customer.

1596 combines the financial strengths and experience of both entities to provide the Arizona Statewide contract with a prime contractor capable of overseeing all facets of the Scope of Work. We also leverage subcontractors to bolster our team and provide additional resources to ensure any emergency that arises is swiftly responded to with the appropriate resources, material options, and necessary staffing levels.

1.2. 1596 was incorporated in the State of South Dakota.

1.3. Main office address: 3605 Locust ST Rapid City, South Dakota 57701

Satellite Offices across all team members responsible for performance of tasks:

• 64 E Broadway Rd. Suite 200 Tempe, AZ 85282

• 9505 Cardinals Way, Glendale, AZ 85305

• 15150 W Park Place Suite 2053, Goodyear, AZ 85395

• 7852 East Alta Sierra Circle Scottsdale, AZ 85266

• 14614 N Kierland Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85254

• 1302 W. Drivers Way, Tempe, AZ 85284

• 4001 S. 15th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85041

• 19203 N. Bowling Rd., Florence, AZ 85132

• 3600 S. 28th St., Phoenix, AZ 85040

• 7500 W. Carefree Hwy, Peoria, AZ 85383

• 4248 Arizona 87, Coolidge, AZ 85128

• 5255 East Williams Circle, Suite 1065, Tucson, Arizona 85711

• 2730 E. Broadway Blvd, Ste. 130, Tucson, Arizona 85716

1.4. 1596 provides an organizational chart specific for the Master Agreement below. This structure represents our Project

Management and Executive support that will participate in the coordination and execution of Task Orders. Task Order organization structures may vary based on the level of effort, skills, services, and materials needed.

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1.5. Neither the mentor nor the protégé in the 1596 JV have any potential conflict of interest between the Offeror and any

State employee who functions or has responsibilities in the review or approval of the undertaking or carrying out of the Contract.

1.6. Neither the mentor nor the protégé in the 1596 Joint Venture has filed for, or had filed against it, any bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings, whether voluntary or involuntary, nor undergone the appointment of a receiver, trustee, or assignee for the benefit of creditors.

1.7. Neither the mentor nor the protégé in the 1596 JV is subject to any pending Securities Exchange Commission investigations.

1.8. Neither the mentor nor the protégé in the 1596 JV has any open or pending litigation initiated by Offeror or where Offeror is a defendant or party in any litigation that may have a material impact on Offeror’s ability to deliver the contracted Services.

1.9. Neither the mentor nor the protégé in the 1596 JV is involved in any open or pending litigation initiated by Offeror or where Offeror is a defendant or party in any litigation with a public sector client.

1.10. 1596 prides itself on delivering quality and professional services to our clients. We have not experienced any public sector contracts terminated for cause or convenience in the past five (5) years nor have any of the JV members.

1.11. 1596 certifies that it has no involvement or history of any criminal or civil offenses.

1.12. We provide licenses for both members of the unpopulated Joint Venture, demonstrating our ability to conduct the services outlined in the solicitation. Additional licensure can be provided at the Task Order level.

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1.13. Please see copies of licenses above.

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2.0 Company Experience

2.1 What market(s) are your current clients primarily in?

2.2 What experience do you have serving clients in business markets within the State of Arizona?

2.3 What is the range in size of your current clients?

2.4 Provide two (2) examples that exhibit your experience with Materials or Services for clients relevant to the Scope of Work? Provide supporting documentation as a separate attachment and title the document: “Attachment - Company Experience”.

2.5 In the last five (5) years, did any of your clients cancel their contracts with your company? If “yes”, why? Please provide as much detail as possible.

2.6 With what relevant trade and/or professional associations are you involved? How does this participation give you an advantage over your competition?

Offeror Response:

2.1 1596’s current clients are in the following markets

- Government and National Security

- Disaster Response and Recovery

- Energy and Critical Infrastructure

- Healthcare and Medical Services

- International Operations and Austere Environments

- Environmental and Industrial Services

- Technology and Surveillance Solutions

- Commercial and Private Sector

- Emergency Services

- High End Resort and Commercial Security and Emergency Response Solutions

- Independent School Systems

- Hospital Networks

- Counties, State, Federal Agencies

- Private Businesses

- Retail and Food Production Chains

2.2 1596 is experienced in delivering security, medical, and emergency response services in the State of Arizona. This includes:

- VAI Resort. 1596 Managing Venturer, VQS, provides a comprehensive suite of security and emergency response services for the largest high-end resort in Arizona, covering security assessment, design, recruitment, training, logistics, material acquisition, and staffing. This includes subject matter expertise in security planning and management, delivering all necessary staffing, recruiting, licensing, pre-employment screenings, and advanced training to establish a premier security team for the expansive, multi-faceted resort environment. VQS developed a technology-forward security system tailored for the 60-acre VAI Resort project, which features over 1,100 rooms, an amphitheater, multiple entertainment venues, and accommodations for up to 16,000 daily visitors. The VQS security model deploys 150 guards for day-to-day operations, with an additional 50–100 guards on standby for large events, ensuring safety across the resort's unique amenities, including a 12-acre man-made beach, theme park, and concert amphitheater. The VQS team also provides round-the-clock safety oversight for 600+ employees, contractors, and visitors during ongoing construction. Key services include:

o Personnel Security: VQS manages recruitment, comprehensive pre-employment screenings, licensing, and advanced training of security personnel, ensuring qualified staff who exceed state and federal standards.

o Physical Security: VQS designed and integrated a technology-forward security system, balancing advanced security tech (CCTV, access controls) with physical guards for continuous surveillance and protection. This includes conducting security surveys to assess the security posture and potential threats.

o Threat Management: VQS deploys adaptable guard staffing with the capability to surge personnel for large events, proactively managing potential threats to ensure visitor and staff safety during peak times.

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This includes detailed reporting analysis and writing to continuously assess responses as well as liaising with local law enforcement.

o Emergency Management: VQS coordinates real-time response capabilities through onsite security teams trained for emergency situations, including crowd management and medical incidents for high-volume settings.

o Program Support: VQS provides end-to-end program support, including contract management, supervision, and resource allocation to meet ongoing and event-based security demands of the expansive resort area.

- USACE / DHS / CBP as a subcontractor to Fisher Sand and Gravel. 1596 Managing Venturer, VQS, provides security and medical services across border fencing in Yuma and Tucson, Arizona. VQS was sole remote emergency and clinical medical service provider in support of the MATOC for Horizontal Construction Services in support of San Diego, El Centro, Yuma, and Tucson Border Patrol Sections and the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Southwestern Division and South Pacific Division, VQS responsibilities included providing medical expertise / support, quality control / standardization of care, and business continuity consultation throughout all stages of border barrier construction. VQS’ primary role as the Medical/Security support contractor for border barrier construction was to safeguard the worksite, contractor personnel, materials, and equipment throughout the entire project lifecycle. VQS has extensive experience in providing these services to support the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), USACE, and the Department of Defense’s (DoD) initiatives for securing and making safe all activities along the US/Mexico Border.

Under both austere weather and high-threat activities, as well as dozens of medical incidents as a result of construction activity mishaps, heat exhaustion, and numerous minor to major medical incidents, VQS maintained 100% staffing across this task order while operating two military-grade medical clinics, supervised by VQS’ team of Medical Directors. VQS was responsible for patient stabilization and direct transport to Level I trauma centers. Care provided included treatment of General Contractors supporting construction efforts, USACE and CBP personnel as well as treatment of asylum seekers, including minors. Level of care included minor incidents such as daily sick calls that included COVID checks, common colds, minor scrapes and cuts, vehicle accidents, and extractions. Our Medical Directors provided additional oversight, that included:

• Protocol development and approval including Federal, State, and Local medical support plans.

• Lead credentialing, certification, and on-site training/familiarization processes: EMTs are licensed in the local state, and VQS uses the National Registry standards since most Paramedics likely have their National Registry of EMT / Paramedic Certifications

• Review/conduct quality assurance (QA) of Patient Care Reports submitted from the field after the on-site QA lead has reviewed/addressed concerns regarding the standard of care. This includes regular onsite visits.

• Audit all documentation to ensure that all standards, mandates, and laws (State & Federal) were adhered to at all times.

• Provide oversight for onsite medical equipment and industrial ambulatory gear ensuring all equipment utilized is approved, and within the scope of practice.

• Ensured that all client / patient transfers were conducted in a safe, efficient, and documented manner to enhance the quality of care for the National Security Related Designated Sites.

Additionally, VQS was responsible for the training of all contractor personnel (TCCC familiarization & awareness) in accordance with Federal, State and Local, requirements. Our Medical Oversight / QC Teams provided all medical personnel with medical training, re – certification, and 24/7 medical oversight. The VQS’ Medical Directors maintained 24/7 availability via on site visits, cell phone, satellite phone, email, and satellite messenger systems.

VQS continuously received praise from the Contracting Officer in areas of schedule performance, quality of services, business relations, management of key personnel, and customer satisfaction.

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Magnitude. VQS supported this project with two military-grade medical clinics along with medical oversight including three Medical Directors and staffing across the border location. Staffing included approximately two Physician Assistants, 1 Nurse Practitioner, and 20 NREMT Paramedics/Special Forces (SOF) medics. VQS also managed the entire response/evacuation package using response & evacuation vehicles that were manned by fully licensed paramedics/SOF medics. VQS also provided protective security officers that performed more than 87,000 hours, manning posts over 41 miles of border fencing with multiple temporary facilities. VQS treated approximately 250 patients including workers, Government Employees, and Asylum Seekers in need of General Medical, Trauma, Heat- Related Illnesses, Covid 19 Symptoms, Cardiac Arrest, Shock, and Dead-on Arrival. The Tucson Package was the largest border fence project ever awarded at $1.27B.

Complexity. This contract required VQS to provide full medical support to include licensed MDs (Medical Directors), Physician Assistants, Nurse Practitioners, Paramedics, fully operational medical clinics (2), and evacuation capabilities to include land, air, and riverine across multiple states and jurisdictions. These operations were conducted in remote and often austere environments adding to the complexity of services provided. VQS’ MDs developed two, USACE approved, medical support / QMP packages that included:

• Pre-coordination and development of ambulance MEDEVAC routes to identified local trauma centers (Level I, Level I Pediatric, Level III, and Level IV Trauma Centers) to include patient hand-off.

• Working with Vison Quest Worldwide Travel in order to ensure that we maintained 100% staffing across all critical services at all times. The Medical Directors were able to be on site for every scheduled site visit, audit, and client meeting throughout the entirety of the projects / task orders.

• Coordination of mishap reporting to both the VQS Medical Directors, Supervisors and Construction Site Safety Managers as well as determining if medical transport was required via VQS ground ambulance or via Arizona, Texas, or Tucson Sector Border CBP dedicated helicopter medical teams for life, limb, or eyesight emergencies.

Determining and planning helicopter landing zone (HLZ) requirements such as free of powerlines/obstacles/hazards and flat ground; Mechanism for marking HLZ, locations, and passing coordinates; Daytime and nighttime markings (colored smoke, infrared Buzzsaw).

2.3 1596 conducts emergency response support services with a wide range of clients, from small businesses to fortune 500 companies and government entities on the local, state and federal levels.

2.4 To demonstrate our experience delivering similar materials and services to the Scope of Work, we provided two supplemental attachments titled:

• Attachment - Company Experience 1

• Attachment - Company Experience 2

2.5 In the last five (5) years, none of our clients cancelled contracts with our company.

2.6 1596’s managing venturer, VQS is pending audit to obtain its Joint Commission Accreditation. They are also pending adjudication on a Top Secret Facility Clearance Level. These pending certifications signify 1596’s dedication to the highest standards of quality, safety, and operational excellence. The Joint Commission Accreditation specifically has the following benefits:

• Ensures compliance with nationally recognized healthcare and safety standards.

• Promotes continuous quality improvement in medical staffing, training, and emergency response operations.

• Reduces risks through proactive patient safety initiatives and evidence-based practices.

• Strengthens eligibility for federal, state, and military contracts requiring accredited healthcare providers.

• Demonstrates compliance with Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) standards.

• Helps meet public sector procurement requirements, increasing credibility and competitive standing.

• Validates the ability to provide high-quality medical care in emergency and remote settings.

• Enhances capability in disaster response, field medical services, and mobile healthcare operations.

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• Ensures qualified and credentialed medical personnel meet stringent performance standards.

• Establishes standardized protocols for medical operations, staffing, and clinical oversight.

• Reduces liability and improves risk management through proactive safety and compliance measures.

• Enhances coordination between security, medical, and emergency response teams.

• Provides government agencies and private sector clients with assurance of quality and reliability.

• Demonstrates commitment to ethical practices, patient-centered care, and continuous improvement.

• Strengthens partnerships with hospitals, emergency response agencies, and military medical units.

Additionally, our JV member, Cotton, maintains involvement with the following professional associations further demonstrating our dedication to disaster recovery and emergency preparedness:

• NEMA – National Emergency Managers Association

• TDEM – Texas Department of Emergency Management

• SCAA – Spill Control Association of America

• NIMS – National Incident Management System

• EMAT – Emergency Management Association of Texas

• IAEM – International Association of Emergency Managers

• EEI – Edison Electrical Institute

3.0 Financial/Accounting Information

Offeror must provide evidence of financial stability and capability to fund all costs associated with providing the relevant Materials or Services throughout the term of the Contract. The latest two (2) years audited annual financial statements including total revenue, net income, and total assets must be submitted with the Offeror’s proposal. If audited financial data is unavailable, explain in full, the reason and provide the latest non-audited financial information including but not limited to balance sheet, income statement, as well as statements of cash flows, and change in financial position. Include information to attest to the accuracy of the information provided.

Offeror shall provide information regarding any irregularities that were discovered in any accounts maintained by the Offeror on behalf of others. Describe the circumstances and disposition of the irregularities.

Offeror Response:

1596 submits its financial documents as the following confidential attachments:

• Confidential - Supplement - Financial Statements 1 of 3

• Confidential - Supplement - Financial Statements 2 of 3

• Confidential - Supplement - Financial Statements 3 of 3

Please note that 1596’s managing venturer does not have audited financials. VQS is a privately held company with no current need or requirement for audited financial statements.

4.0 Certificates/Licenses

Submit copies of all applicable certificates and licenses that support Offeror’s ability to provide the proposed Materials or Services. At a minimum, this shall include all certifications and licenses referenced in the Solicitation Attachment - Organization Profile.

Please see copies of licenses in section 1.2 above.

5.0 Product Purchase/Lease/Lease to Own

Please provide a description of your Purchase/Lease/Lease-to-Own program

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1596 offers a flexible Purchase, Lease, and Lease-to-Own Program tailored to meet the diverse operational and budgetary needs of Participating Entities. This program allows agencies to procure mission-essential equipment and assets through structured options that align with their financial planning and contract requirements. Lease and lease-to-own agreements will be negotiated at the task order level, ensuring customized solutions that best fit each entity’s operational demands.

Purchase Program

Participating Entities have the option to purchase equipment outright, securing immediate ownership with full control over asset management, maintenance, and lifecycle planning. This option is ideal for entities seeking long-term investments in critical infrastructure, protective solutions, and emergency response equipment.

Key Features:

• Immediate ownership with full operational control

• No recurring payments or financial obligations beyond the initial purchase

• Custom pricing available based on volume and contract terms

• Direct manufacturer warranties and ongoing support available

Lease Program The lease program provides flexible, short- and long-term leasing options, allowing Participating Entities to access the necessary equipment without the upfront capital investment of a full purchase. This model is well-suited for temporary operations, surge capacity needs, or agencies requiring rapid deployment solutions.

• Fixed-term leasing agreements with structured payment plans

• Access to the latest technology and equipment without long-term commitment

• Scalability options to increase or decrease inventory based on operational needs

• End-of-term flexibility, including renewal, return, or upgrade options

Lease-to-Own Program For agencies that require a long-term solution with deferred ownership, the lease-to-own program provides a structured pathway to equipment ownership over time. This option allows entities to lease equipment under negotiated installment terms, with the option to convert to full ownership at the end of the lease period.

• Structured lease payments that apply toward ownership

• Retention of budget flexibility while maintaining asset acquisition goals

• Negotiable buyout options at the end of the lease period

• Ideal for entities with long-term operational needs but limited upfront funding

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Negotiation at the Task Order Level Lease and lease-to-own agreements will be negotiated at the task order level to ensure the best terms for each Participating Entity. Factors such as lease duration, payment structures, buyout options, and customization requirements will be addressed individually to accommodate specific agency budgets and operational constraints.

1596’s structured procurement approach ensures that agencies receive the most cost-effective and mission-ready solutions without unnecessary financial strain. Whether through direct purchase, leasing, or lease-to-own arrangements, 1596 is committed to providing flexible and scalable solutions that meet each Participating Entity’s needs.